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The big unknown for the Baltimore Ravens in Week 17 is the status of their quarterback. Lamar Jackson has been struggling with an ankle injury for a few weeks now, after suffering it in Week 14. On Wednesday, Jackson was seen limping as a limited participant at the Ravens' practice and did not participate in Thursday's practice.
This is all cause for concern for the quarterback's availability for Week 17 against the Los Angeles Rams. However, backup Tyler Huntley seemed to play it off, making it seem like Jackson's injury isn't spiraling as much as the public thinks it is. When asked about Jackson limping at practice on Wednesday, Huntley blamed it on the wintry cold of December.
ESPN Ravens reporter Jamison Hensley tweeted his reply Friday afternoon.
Asked about Lamar Jackson limping Wednesday, Tyler Huntley said with a laugh: "I think it was cold outside. That could hurt your bones a little bit."
Huntley added, "I got good confidence in that LJ is going to be back to LJ and everything is going to play out good."
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) December 31, 2021
Hensley also added that Huntley has “good confidence” that Jackson will make a full recovery and return as the star mobile quarterback he is known as.
John Harbaugh has similar optimism. The Ravens head coach told the media on Friday that he thinks Jackson could be ready to play on Sunday.
"I think Lamar has a chance to play on Sunday, we'll have to see." pic.twitter.com/UP5mMh9Gbg
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) December 31, 2021
If Jackson plays, this will be his first game in three weeks. Since Week 14, two different quarterbacks have taken the field for Baltimore. Tyler Huntley suited up in Week 15, and third-string Josh Johnson played Week 16. Having Jackson back at this point in the season would be crucial, since the Ravens are barely hanging on to a chance at a playoff run. If he is not able to play, Huntley will take the snaps for Baltimore on Sunday.